Thomas Williams

Tom Williams, 98, of Lancaster, our beloved husband, dad and pap went Home to be with our Lord on Christmas Eve, December 24, at St. Anne’s Retirement Community.

Tom was the youngest (and last) of six children of William and Priscilla Williams.

Tom began his career in law enforcement in 1947 with the Lancaster City Bureau of Police, retiring as Captain of Detectives in 1972 after 25 years of dedicated service. Upon retiring as police officer, he was appointed Chief Deputy with the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office. He then served two terms as the elected Sheriff of Lancaster County, retiring in 1988 after 41 years in law enforcement. During his off-duty hours and after retirement, Tom found much pleasure working with vehicles. His family and many of his co-workers benefited from his many nights and weekends working at Angelini & Groff’s Garage.

Tom was the patriarch at Redeemer Lutheran Church, being the oldest male member of the church. He also was a member of the Fraternal Order of Police Red Rose Lodge #16 and the PA Sheriff’s Association.

Tom was a truly amazing, caring, hard-working and wonderful family man to his wife Faye of 49 years; to his five loving daughters: Barbara Hoffman(Gene Schneider) of Phoenixville; Debbie (Jack) McCarthy of Millersville; Donna (Donald) Hartsough of Lancaster; Carol (Chuck) Kalomeris of East Longmeadow, MA; and Mary “Tina” Erb of Atlanta, GA; his nine grandchildren: David (Melanie) Hoffman of MD; Scott (Rose) Hoffman of NY; Christopher (Susan) Leese of Landisville; Jana Hartsough of Lancaster; Ryan Hartsough of Lancaster; Taylor Kalomeris of MA; Julie Garber (Bryan Smith) of OH; Jessica (Josh) Dickhaus of OH; and Kyle Buchmoyer of Phila; and his 8 great-grandchildren: Kinsey, Cameron, Connor, Cole, Emily, Sydney, Henley, and Brady. He was predeceased by his first wife, Esther in 1964.

A special “thank you” to the wonderful nurses, CNA’s and staff at St. Anne’s for the loving care given to Tommy.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend a funeral service in Redeemer Lutheran Church, 500 Pearl St., Lancaster, PA on Wednesday, December 30, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. David D. Kreider officiating. The family will greet friends at the church on Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service.

Private interment will take place at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be sent to Redeemer Lutheran Church, 500 Pearl St., Lancaster PA 17603.

Condolence Messages

Faye: So sorry to hear that Tommy has passed away. We knew Tommy for many, many years and always enjoyed talking to him. He was such an asset to both the City and County and he definitely was loved by all. Our deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family during this most difficult time.

To the family of Thomas Williams: Many years ago a friend and I were assaulted on our way to high school. We contacted the police as soon as we arrived. Our case was handled by Tommy Williams and his partner Luther Henry. I have never forgotten their kindnesses as we traversed the legal system in what was a rather uncomfortable situation. May your dad/pap rest in peace. Heaven is surely waiting with gates wide open.

Dear Mrs. Williams I was so sorry to read of Mr. Williams’ death. I remember with great fondness Dad’s friendship with you two and the stories about the County Detective’s office. I’ll bet Tommy and Charlie are having quite a reunion. Prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. Mary Ann Simmons Hess